Oisín Jackson, a student from Mary Immaculate Secondary School, Lisdoonvarna, has won the Water Forum–sponsored Water Award at the 2026 Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition for his innovative project, “TURCAST: Forecasting Turlough Depths Through Machine Learning and Data Analysis.”
Oisín’s project focuses on developing a method to forecast short-term turlough depths using machine learning algorithms, informed by hydrological and meteorological data analysis. Turloughs are seasonal lake systems found in parts of Ireland that fill and drain in response to groundwater levels and rainfall. By applying cutting-edge data science to environmental monitoring, the project demonstrates how predictive modelling can improve understanding and forecasting of these unique water systems.
The Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, held annually at the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) in Dublin, brings together some of Ireland’s brightest young minds to present
original research and innovation across STEM disciplines. The exhibition attracts hundreds of finalists from schools nationwide, providing a national platform for students to showcase their work to expert judges and the public.
In total, over 2,000 projects were submitted to the 2026 competition, with just 550 selected to participate in the three-day event across five categories: Technology; Biological and Ecological Sciences; Social and Behavioural Sciences; Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences; and Health and Wellbeing. Since the Water Forum first introduced its Water Award in 2023, there has been a steady increase in water-related research projects submitted by students.
The Water Forum would like to thank its members who participated in the exhibition and engaged with teachers, parents and students over the three days. The event provides a valuable opportunity for the Water Forum to share its Learn About Water education resources and to support learning and awareness around water with both educators and families.
